Michael Hussey determined to play Ashes

Michael Hussey has stated that he wants to play in the Ashes in the next year and help Australia reclaim the cherished urn. The retirement of Ricky Ponting during the third Test against South Africa at Perth at the age of 37 has made Hussey confront his own sporting mortality. In 2013, Australia are playing back-to-back Ashes series in England and then in Australia.

In an interview to the Sydney Morning Herald, Hussey explained that the Ashes is a motivating series but it would be dangerous to look too far ahead. Hussey has been in wonderful form this summer. He has scored a total of 675 runs at an average of 88.20, including three centuries in the last four Tests.

He has admitted that he would like to return to Western Australia and captain the team when his international career is over. He has spoken to Justin Langer, the new Western Australia coach, about the possibility of helping his home state recover from the problems. However, he said that there is still some time for that.

The departure of Ponting has made Hussey more determined to enjoy the rest of his playing career while it lasts.